Alexandria is Egypt’s second-largest city and one of the most historic and culturally important cities in the Mediterranean region. Located along the Mediterranean coast, Alexandria is often called the “Pearl of the Mediterranean” because of its seaside atmosphere, European-style architecture, and rich history.
The city was founded in 331 BCE by Alexander the Great, who wanted to create a major center of Greek culture and trade in Egypt. During the Hellenistic period, Alexandria became one of the greatest cities of the ancient world and served as the capital of Egypt under the Ptolemaic dynasty.
Alexandria was famous for two legendary landmarks of the ancient world:
• The Library of Alexandria, considered the largest and most important library of the ancient world.
• The Lighthouse of Alexandria, also known as the Pharos Lighthouse, which was one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Today, the modern Bibliotheca Alexandrina was built to revive the spirit of the ancient library and serves as a major cultural center, museum, and research institution.
Alexandria is also known for its blend of Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Islamic heritage. Important attractions include:
• Citadel of Qaitbay, a 15th-century fortress built on the site of the ancient lighthouse.
• Montaza Palace and its gardens overlooking the sea.
• Catacombs of Kom El Shoqafa, one of the largest Roman burial sites in Egypt.
• Alexandria Corniche, the famous waterfront promenade stretching along the Mediterranean Sea.
• Alexandria has a more relaxed and coastal lifestyle compared to Cairo. The city is famous for its seafood restaurants, cafés, beaches, and cooler Mediterranean climate. It has also played a major role in Egyptian cinema, literature, and art, inspiring writers such as Naguib Mahfouz and Constantine P. Cavafy.
Today, Alexandria remains one of Egypt’s most important economic centers, with a major port that handles a large share of the country’s international trade.